Peoria, Arizona is a relatively little-known suburb of Phoenix which provides residents with an unmatched number of activities and a relatively low cost of living — especially when compared to the prices in comparable suburbs like North Scottsdale. And while the reason more people do not know about Peoria is something of a mystery, we have decided to help get the word out with this blog post highlighting just a sampling of the things that make Peoria one of the best Arizona cities for active lifestyles.

Why Peoria is one of the Best Arizona Cities for Active Lifestyles

In addition to the Phoenix area being famous for its relaxing spas and resorts, the recreational opportunities in the area are unparalleled. And with beautiful sunshine all year long, Valley residents have the chance to enjoy their favorite outdoor recreation and activities while their friends and families in other parts of the country are shoveling snow.

While Peoria has plenty of amenities to suit a range of preferences, the city’s ability to cater to active lifestyles is especially noteworthy.

Discovery Trail

Peoria is a city with numerous hiking and jogging paths. Among the best is the Discovery Trail, a private trail located in our own Vistancia Master-Planned Community and available to Vistancia residents. Whether you prefer walking, running, biking or even rollerblading, the Discovery Trail allows residents easy access to other communities, amenities and even more trails in the area. Take advantage of areas along the trail where you can take in the stars at night, enjoy an afternoon picnic or even practice some early morning yoga surrounded by the peaceful desert.

Lake Pleasant

For those who love to play in the water, Lake Pleasant is one of the most exciting things about living in Arizona. Located in North Peoria, this man-made reservoir is one of the best lakes in all of Arizona. Whether you are a fan of fishing, boating, kayaking or just about any other kind of water sport you can imagine, living in Peoria is a fantastic way to take advantage of this Arizona treasure. And for those with interests other than water sports? Camping, hiking, picnicking and even stargazing opportunities are abounding at Lake Pleasant.

Head on up for an early morning hike or camp out for the weekend. Either way, Peoria residents largely enjoy their proximity to this area.

Peoria Sports Complex

Located near Peoria’s main shopping corridor, the Peoria Sports Complex is the destination of choice for MLB Spring Training attendees throughout the Valley and visiting from other states. The Spring Training home to both the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres, the complex is used for other events like local Little League and concerts outside of Cactus League games. And, when you become a Peoria resident, you can enjoy 25 percent off the price of admission for Spring Training games for both the Mariners and Padres. What could be better than that?

Horseback riding in Peoria

With multiple stables located throughout Peoria, equestrians of all ability levels are able to take advantage of the close proximity to wide open spaces and enjoy the view of the beautiful Arizona desert from the back of a horse. Horseback riding is, after all, somewhat of a holy grail of activities: You can burn a significant number of calories while still benefiting from the relaxation benefits of interacting with your horse. From regular lessons to the occasional trail ride, it is a great way to remain active, relax and unwind.

Rio Vista Community Park

Owned and maintained by the city of Peoria, the Rio Vista Community Park features numerous amenities to accommodate a variety of interests. With programs aimed specifically at engaging residents and helping them remain active, you can take advantage of numerous fields, ramadas or walking and jogging paths. Inside the park, you will find a skate park, lake and the impressive Rio Vista Recreation Center. The 52,000 square foot building houses indoor racquetball courts, a rock climbing wall and more. Having won multiple awards, the Rio Vista Recreation Center offers the option to purchase passes on a daily, weekly, monthly or annual basis.

Rio Vista Community Park also contains on end of New River Trail. This paved greenbelt offers active residents the ability to safely walk, jog or ride their bikes to numerous neighborhoods and surrounding communities completely without interruption. Well maintained and well marked, New River Trail is a huge asset to those in Peoria who prefer to leave their car parked during the nine months out of the year that Arizona has picturesque weather.

The Village at Vistancia’s Mountain Vista Club

This 15,000 square foot recreation center offers residents of The Village at Vistancia another chance to enjoy an active lifestyle without having to leave their community. Amenities include:

8,000-square-foot indoor basketball and pickleball gymnasium with an adjoining entertainment lounge and game room

Three swimming pools, a resort-style pool with waterslide and a heated lap pool

To learn more about what makes the City of Peoria one of the best Arizona cities for active lifestyles and for more information about Vistancia, sign up to receive the Vistancia Enewsletter. Once you sign up we will send you updates on Vistancia events, builder incentives and other community information.